Sweet-tart cranberry-orange glaze over tender chicken bites—golden, juicy, and perfect for festive gatherings, quick apps, or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites serves an important purpose, from building savory depth to layering on tangy, fresh, and sweet notes. You’ll love how they complement each other to create a dish that’s memorable and mouthwatering yet surprisingly simple.
- Chicken breast: Sliced into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy texture in every bite.
- Olive oil: Gives the chicken gorgeous golden color and locks in moisture as it sears.
- Salt: Brings out the natural savoriness of the chicken and balances the sauce’s sweetness.
- Black pepper: Adds just a little warmth to tie everything together with subtle heat.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: Delivers lovely bursts of tart fruitiness and appealing texture, making the sauce cling perfectly to the chicken.
- Orange juice: Offers a fresh citrusy zing that complements the cranberry and lifts the flavor profile.
- Orange zest: Infuses the sauce with intense orange aroma for extra vibrancy and depth.
- Honey: Rounds out the sharpness of the cranberries and juice with mellow, natural sweetness.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional): Freshens up the finished dish with bright color and a clean, herby bite.
How to Make Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken breast pieces with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy here—a generous sprinkle ensures every bite has flavor. This quick seasoning sets the foundation and gets those tastebuds ready for all the vibrant flavors ahead.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, until they turn beautifully golden and are cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush—this step locks in moisture and adds irresistible caramelized flavor to your Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
While your chicken is working its magic, grab a bowl and whisk together the whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, and honey. This luscious mixture should look jewel-toned and glossy—it’s the secret to both the sauce’s bold taste and its sticky, clinging texture.
Step 4: Simmer Bites in the Sauce
Pour the cranberry-orange sauce over the cooked chicken. Reduce the heat to low and stir gently so every piece is coated. Let it all simmer for 5-10 minutes—the sauce will thicken slightly and set its flavor into the chicken, transforming these simple bites into something ultra-special.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Take your finished Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites off the heat and scatter with chopped green onions or parsley if you like. The flecks of green add fresh appeal and a lovely contrast to the rich, glossy sauce. Now you’re ready to enjoy—whether straight from the pan or attractively arranged for guests!
How to Serve Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites
Garnishes
A finishing flourish makes all the difference! For these bites, a handful of chopped green onions or parsley adds freshness and a pop of color, perfectly playing off the sweet-tangy sauce. You can even zest a little extra orange over the top just before serving for bonus aroma and brightness.
Side Dishes
These Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites are extremely versatile—try setting them alongside fluffy jasmine rice, wild rice pilaf, or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up that incredible sauce. For a lighter meal, a crisp green salad or roasted veggies work beautifully. They’re a natural fit for a holiday spread too!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress, thread the chicken bites onto small skewers for party-perfect finger food, or serve them in little lettuce cups for a fresh, modern touch. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks or as a centerpiece on a festive buffet; either way, Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply transfer the cooled Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to three days, making it easy to grab quick bites or pack a flavorful lunch the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the chicken and sauce cool completely. Place portions into airtight freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, pressing out extra air to lock in freshness. Frozen Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites can be stored for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a homemade treat.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your bites gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. A splash of chicken broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge. Microwaving also works for speedy single servings—just cover and heat until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breast?
Absolutely! Simply shred or chop your cooked poultry, then toss it directly in the sauce and heat until everything is hot. It’s a deliciously easy way to breathe new life into leftovers, especially after a holiday meal.
Is there a substitute for whole berry cranberry sauce if I can’t find it?
If whole berry cranberry sauce isn’t available, you can use jellied cranberry sauce—the taste will be similar but the texture will be smoother. For extra pop, stir in a few whole fresh or dried cranberries.
Are Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites gluten free?
As written, yes, Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites are naturally gluten free! Just double-check your cranberry sauce and other packaged ingredients to make sure there are no hidden gluten sources.
Can I make this in advance for a party?
Certainly! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Shortly before serving, reheat gently on the stovetop, add the sauce, and simmer. Fresh garnishes right before serving will help maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
What protein can I substitute if I don’t eat chicken?
This recipe adapts beautifully to cubes of pork tenderloin or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Both options soak up the cranberry-orange sauce deliciously and offer that same festive flair.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply joyful about sharing Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites with people you love—the flavors are bright, bold, and a little unexpected, making them perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Give them a try and watch as smiles light up around your table. Enjoy every sweet-sour-savory bite!
Print
Cranberry-Orange Chicken Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tangy cranberry-orange chicken bites glazed to golden perfection—juicy, festive, and perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or quick weeknight treats.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Cranberry-Orange Sauce
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp honey
For Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breast pieces dry, then sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper. This helps to build a base flavor and tenderize the meat before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, arranging them in a single layer. Sauté for 7-9 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F.)
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, and honey in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Simmer with Sauce: Lower the heat to low. Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat all pieces, then let simmer for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve warm as appetizers or alongside your favorite side.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
- You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Taste and adjust the honey if you prefer a sweeter or tarter sauce.
- This dish works well served over rice, couscous, or as part of a holiday spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg